Dhaka, Aug 14 (V7N) - Despite an administrative ban on student politics within residential halls at Dhaka University (DU), Jatiyatabadi Charta Dal (JCD) President Rakibul Islam Rakib affirmed that the organization’s newly announced hall committees will remain intact. His remarks came following a courtesy meeting with the university vice-chancellor on Thursday.

In a media briefing after the meeting, Rakib said that discussions with the vice-chancellor centered on formulating a framework for student politics within residential halls, the wider university arena, and particularly the Dhaka University Central Students' Union (DUCSU).

He stated that the university administration had assured them of an investigation into incidents of cyberbullying, covert political activities, and disruptions on campus. According to Rakib, "Our hall committees will remain in place. The administration has shown a clear stance against underground politics and pledged to take action accordingly."

Earlier on August 9, JCD had announced new committees for 18 residential halls. On the same night, protests broke out on campus, with a section of students opposing the declaration of any political committees. Demonstrators rallied near the vice-chancellor’s residence, demanding a halt to all forms of political activism within the dormitories.

In response, Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Niaz Ahmed Khan reiterated the university’s position on banning student politics in the halls, originally declared on July 17, 2024. He said the policy remains effective and that respective hall administrations will take action in accordance with university regulations.

Speaking further, Rakib claimed that while the administration has been vocal against covert political activities, groups such as Islami Charta Shibir are allegedly gaining ground in the halls through underground politics. He accused both Charta League and Charta Shibir of occupying halls through violence and secretive operations.

He also raised concerns about negative commentary against JCD in social media groups such as the ‘Dhaka University Student Parliament’ and demanded intervention from the university administration. Rakib called for legal action against identified Charta League members allegedly involved in past violence, asserting that JCD members have become victims of media trials and online mobbing.

On a broader note, the university has initiated efforts to reevaluate the nature and role of student politics on campus. On August 11, a five-member committee was formed to develop a comprehensive policy on constructive student political engagement, aiming to preserve the academic environment while upholding democratic values.

The committee, formed under the decision of the university's SMT (Statutory Management Team), includes Professor Dr. Mohammad Siddiqur Rahman Khan (Acting Dean, Faculty of Arts), Dr. Abdullah-Al-Mamun (Provost, Salimullah Muslim Hall), Professor Dr. Md. Nazmul Hossain (Provost, Muktijoddha Ziaur Rahman Hall), Professor Dr. Aleya Begum (Provost, Bangamata Sheikh Fazilatunnesa Mujib Hall), and Professor Dr. Mohammad Nazmuzamman Bhuiyan (Department of Law).

A formal notification issued by Deputy Registrar (Administration-3) Syeda Masuda Akhter stated that the committee will consult with registered student organizations, general students, and other stakeholders. It has the authority to co-opt up to three additional members as needed and is expected to submit recommendations promptly.

As the situation evolves, stakeholders await the university’s next steps regarding student political activities on campus, particularly in light of mounting tensions between various student organizations and recent administrative directives.

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